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Arulmigu Thiru Ardhanareeswarar Temple, or Arthanareeswarar Temple, is a Hindu temple which has been devoted to the famous deity of Arthanareeswarar, which is one of the forms of Shiv-Parvati. It is the androgynous incarnation of Lord Shiva and Parvati. It is the visualisation of a blend of male and female energies that represents the idea of both balance and equality. Located on a hill in Tiruchengode Town, it is one of the most prominent places of worship in Tamil Nadu, attracting hundreds of pilgrims daily.
Quick Details About Ardhanareeswarar Temple
Location: Ardhanareeswarar Hills, Temple Road, Tiruchengode, Namakkal District, Tamil Nadu
Elevation: 198.12 metres (650 feet) (1900 feet from main sea level)
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Important Festivals: Chithirai Festival, Vinayak Chathurthi, Kedara Gowri Viratham, Vaikasi Visagam
About Ardhanareeswarar Temple
Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
The idol here is an immensely beautiful Ardhanareeswarar deity sculpture, with Lord Shiva’s right half and Goddess Parvathi’s left half. It’s easy to find the Ardhanareeswarar Temple address as it is quite popular in the region. To reach the temple, one has to climb about 1200 steps, although there is a roadway for vehicular traffic as well. On the way, you can see some temples and mandapams, which will enhance your spiritual experience and deepen your devotion. On the same hill, a little distance from the main temple, there is a smaller shrine of Lord Vinyaka and the Chenkottu Velavar Temple of Lord Murugan which you can visit.
Suggested Read: Kamakshi Temple Visit
How To Reach Ardhanareeswarar Temple
Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari / Wikimedia Commons
Ardhanareeswarar Temple, Tiruchengode is easily accessible via different transport routes offering a seamless travel experience to visitors.
By Air: The nearest airport is Salem Airport, which is approximately 45-50 km from here and the other is Coimbatore International Airport which is about 120-130 km out.
By Train:Erode Railway Station is the nearest important railway station, at a distance of nearly 25 km. Namakkal Railway Station is also within reach, at a distance of about 30-35 km.
By Road: Tiruchengode is easily accessible by road from Chennai, Coimbatore, Trichy, Salem, Erode, and Namakkal. Buses come and go to Tiruchengode.
Places To Visit Around Ardhanareeswarar Temple
Apart from visiting the temple, you can explore the nearby region to make the most out of your trip. Here are some of the top places to visit around Ardhanareeswarar Temple.
1. Namakkal Sree Anjaneyar Temple
Photo: Adityamadhav83 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you wish to make this trip completely devotional, you must visit this temple. Another temple in Namakkal which can be described as the epitome of spirituality is Anjaneyar which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This particular temple is unique because it possesses around eighteen-foot-tall Lord Hanuman statue, which is believed to be self-manifested.
Distance From Temple: About 37 km
Timings: 6:30 AM – 1:30 PM; 4:30 – 8:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things To Do: Offer prayer, explore rock-cut architecture, and enjoy the scenic view during the trek
Suggested Read: Thirunallar Temple
2. Namakkal Fort
Photo: Thamizhpparithi Maari / Wikimedia Commons
At an elevation on the hill, the fort is historic in its origin from the Thirumalai Nayak period and offers a remarkable eye view over Namakkal town. It has a Narasimha Murthy Temple, a form of the Vishnu deity, and a Narasimha temple carved out of rock. Also, there is a mosque located inside the fort. It is a must-visit nearby place if you’re interested in ancient history and architecture.
Distance From Temple: About 38 km
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things To Do: Learn about ancient building styles, view scenic landscapes, and visit adjoining and nearby temples
3. Bhavani Sangameswarar Temple
Photo: Shanze1 / Wikimedia Commons
The temple, also known by the names Thirunana, Thirukooduthuri, and Dakshina Triveni Sangamam, is situated where the three rivers Bhavani, Amutha (Agaya Gangai), and Kaveri merge. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva, whom the people in the area highly regard as a significant God as the protector and giver of prosperity.
Distance From Temple: About 32 km
Timings: 5:30 AM – 1 PM; 4 – 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things To Do: Devoting a prayer, take a bath at the junction, and enjoy at riverside
Suggested Read: Suchindram Temple
4. Arulmigu Kailasanathar Temple
Photo: Rk root / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This temple can be found in Tiruchengode, which is also a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple boasts of beautifully designed buildings, making it a place of great religious importance. Since it is less populated, it is also calm and serene, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful holiday. In addition, it forms one of the subsidiary temples of Ardhanareeswarar temple.
Distance From Temple: About 4 km
Timings: 6 AM-12 PM; 4-8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things To Do: Offer prayers, admire the architecture of the temple, and attend temple festivities
5. Kolli Hills
Photo: Prasanth 05 / Wikimedia Commons
Kolli Hills lies around ninety kilometres from the town of Tiruchengode. If you are an adventure lover, the hills are the ultimate destination and reason for admiration. They have mountains, trekkers’ trails, waterfalls like Agaya Gangai Falls, and beautiful greenery to explore.
Distance From Temple: About 91 km
Timings: Daytime (Preferable)
Entry Fee: Free
Things To Do: Enjoying waterfall, trekking, nature walks, hiking, exploring nearby temples
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kolli Hills
6. Namakkal Narasimha Temple
This ancient cave temple is carved into a massive hillock and dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the fourth incarnation of Vishnu. The sanctum houses a majestic 18-foot idol of Narasimha in a peaceful seated posture, a rare depiction. The temple’s rock-cut interiors showcase remarkable craftsmanship and serenity. Adjacent to it lies the towering Namakkal Anjaneyar Temple, featuring an 18-foot-tall idol of Lord Hanuman standing in the open sky. Pilgrims frequent both shrines for divine blessings and to experience the peaceful, spiritually charged atmosphere surrounding this historic site.
Distance From Temple: 31 km
Timings: 6:30 AM – 1 PM; 4:30 PM – 9 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things To Do: Darshan of Lord Narasimha, visit the Anjaneyar Temple, admire the rock-cut architecture
7. Kodumudi Magudeswarar Temple
This ancient riverside temple stands out for housing the trinity of Hinduism—Shiva (Magudeswarar), Vishnu (Veeranarayana), and Brahma—within a single complex. Located along the sacred Cauvery River, the temple is revered for its peaceful surroundings and spiritual sanctity. The architecture reflects typical Dravidian style with intricately carved pillars and serene sanctums. Devotees often take a dip in the river before entering the shrine. It’s also believed that visiting this temple offers spiritual balance, as it combines the three principal deities in one location, which is rare and considered highly auspicious.
Distance From Temple: 45 km
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM; 3 PM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
Things To Do: Offer prayers to Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma; stroll along the Cauvery riverbank; enjoy the peaceful rural setting
Suggested Read: Virudhachalam Temple
8. Siddhar Caves
Photo: Denniz Futalan / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Nestled within the forested slopes of Tiruchengode Hills, the Siddhar Caves are believed to have been used by ancient sages and siddhars (spiritual mystics) for deep meditation. These caves are secluded and surrounded by lush greenery and medicinal plants native to the region. The walk to reach the caves involves a mild hike, rewarding you with tranquil vibes and panoramic views of the landscape. Local legends speak of siddhars achieving enlightenment here, and many spiritual seekers still visit for quiet contemplation. These caves form a spiritually enriching stop for those visiting the hilltop Ardhanareeswarar Temple.
Distance From Temple: 19 km
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Things To Do: Explore the meditation caves, enjoy nature trails, discover herbal plants and spiritual history
9. Sankagiri Fort
Photo: Gautham5210 / Wikimedia Commons
Perched atop a cluster of hills, Sankagiri Fort is a historic stronghold that dates back to the 15th century, built initially by the Vijayanagara Empire and later fortified by the British. The fort complex contains over 10 layers of defensive walls, watchtowers, granaries, and temples, spread over a steep rocky terrain. A trek up to the summit offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. It played a crucial role in colonial history and was once used by freedom fighters during the independence struggle. Ideal for history enthusiasts and trekkers, it’s one of the most impressive forts in the region.
Distance From Temple: 30 km
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹25 (Indians); ₹300 (foreigners)
Things To Do: Trekking, heritage photography, exploring ancient granaries and watchtowers, enjoying hilltop views
Suggested Read: Vattakottai Fort
10. Masila Falls
Photo: Snapwire / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Tucked away in the Kolli Hills region, Masila Falls is a hidden gem known for its calm and accessible cascade. Unlike more powerful waterfalls, Masila is gentle and safe for bathing, attracting families and trekkers alike. Visitors walk along a short 500-meter scenic trail from the parking area, surrounded by dense vegetation and birdsong. The waterfall is often visited along with Masi Periyasamy Temple, located nearby, where locals offer prayers. The area is especially refreshing during and after the monsoon season, offering a quiet natural retreat in the hills.
Distance From Temple: 45 km
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10 per person
Things To Do: Bathe under the falls, enjoy a short trek, visit nearby Masi Periyasamy Temple
Where To Stay
Photo: Derek Jensen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Tiruchengode has its unique places to stay with hotel services, including Dharamshalas, guesthouses, and hotels. The places best suited for this include:
Sri Kumaran Castle: This hotel is situated close to the temple, where you can stay in clean, spacious air-conditioned rooms at reasonable prices.
Hotel Jothi: Hotel Jothi guarantees simple but safe stay for those who need a comfortable stay during their holiday. There is a restaurant in this hotel as well.
If you wish to reside in the nearby cities, Salem or Erode are both options to consider.
Suggested Read: Patteeswaram Temple
Where To Eat
Photo: Basile Morin / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Moving further into Tiruchengode you can find many local restaurants, Dhaba’s, local food and street food serving many varieties.
Saravana Bhavan: This restaurant offers quality food at affordable rates. It uses fresh ingredients and serves a variety of South Indian dishes..
Erode Ponnusamy High-Class Vegetarian Restaurant: Located on Sankagiri-Tiruchengode Road, this restaurant serves a range of dishes, including Veg Thali, Pongal, Gobi Manchurian, and many wholesome dishes.
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Other Factors To Consider
There are some other factors to consider while visiting the temple to make the most of your trip:
Trek Preparation: If you wish to climb the steps, try to start early and carry enough water bottles, as well as quick energy snacks. Wear comfortable shoes.
Dressing: Within the temple vicinity, try to dress in appropriate traditional attire or modest dresses, respecting the beliefs of the faith and the religious significance of the temple.
Weather: The period between November and March is suitable for visiting and climbing the temple; otherwise, do not wait.
Cost Of The Trip: The trip to Arulmigu Thiru Ardhanareeswarar Temple generally costs ₹3000 to 6000 including travel, accommodation, and food. But it varies according to your choices and the duration of the trip.
Suggested Read: Discover The Spiritual Significance Of Temples Near Sholinganallur
The Arulmigu Thiru Ardhanareeswarar Temple, with its distinct deity and its location on the mountain, adds a spiritual touch to your visit. Whether you go sightseeing or as a devotee, you will gain an insightful view of the traditions, rich customs, and ornate architecture of the temple. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity to visit one of the most famous temples in Tamil Nadu. Book now with TripXL to enjoy a hassle-free and enjoyable journey.
Cover Photo: Ssriram mt / Wikimedia Commons
